Known internationally as the “Home of the Blues” and the “Birthplace of Rock and Roll,” Memphis, Tennessee, is one of the world’s most historically significant music destinations. Many music legends lived and created here, from B.B. King and Otis Redding to Isaac Hayes and Elvis, whose home, Graceland, is the state’s No. 1 tourist attraction. Memphis also was a center of activity during the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s. But following the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King at the Lorraine Hotel near downtown, the city languished, with businesses and middle-class families moving out of the economic center. Today, Memphis has bounced back, becoming a hip alternative to the more touristy Nashville. One sign of that revitalization is the development of leading hotels. In fact, Hyatt chose the city for the worldwide debut of its newest chain, Caption. Caption by Hyatt Beale Street is the second of three planned Hyatt hotels being developed in one section of downtown.
Caption by Hyatt: A new “lifestyle” brand
Part of a 5.5-acre mixed-use development, Caption by Hyatt thoughtfully repurposes the historic brick Wm. C Ellis & Sons Ironworks and Machine Shop building. Located at the base of Beale Street, overlooking the Mississippi River, this was one of the earliest businesses in Memphis. Now, the white brick structure serves as the hotel’s ground and second floor, with a modern 136-guestroom tower above.
Caption is situated next door to Hyatt Centric, and the two hotels are connected by a walkway. As such, guests can travel between both properties without having to step outside. Of course, this also leads to some confusion, as signage for Caption is sparse. A small door beneath a marquee on the far southern end of the façade only hints at the accommodations inside. The main drop off point is hidden behind the building. I saw many confused Uber and delivery drivers waiting for Caption pickups and drop-offs at the Centric next door, which has a designated drop-off/check-in lane and expansive glass-fronted entrance.
The check-in process at Caption also is a bit of a guessing game. Like many modern hotels today — Moxy, for example — Caption does not have a reception desk. Instead, you walk into what looks like a large communal living room, complete with numerous colorful sofas, coffee tables, shared work tables, small seating arrangements, bookshelves filled with playful tchotchkes, and game areas. There, you’ll find a small podium-style station tucked away near the front windows.
On the opposite side of the room is a diner-esque kitchen that serves as the hotel’s eatery and bar. With its blue-fronted counter and bright red open shelves, it runs almost the entire length of the long, narrow lobby. The elevators are tucked behind it.
Urban minimalism
Like the lobby, the rooms give off a vibe that’s more college dorm than luxury retreat. The rooms are spacious, with plenty of floor space for storing bags or simply walking around. They’re big enough for two people to comfortably hang out or get ready for a night out. In addition to a king-size bed with tiny built-in nightstand shelves, rooms feature a small love seat, a bistro table and chair, a built-in open closet/luggage rack/mini-fridge storage, and a wall-mount TV. Don’t expect a microwave or coffee maker, though.
The furnishings are minimalist, all with metal frames. It reminded me of an Ikea showroom.
The aesthetic in the bathroom is a mix of industrial and fun. Towel bars, robe hooks, and vanity legs are made from black industrial-style pipe. And a neon yellow dado rail complements the soothing slate blue wall hue. The top portion of the walls are covered with a black-and-white wallpaper that showcases sketches of leading Memphis attractions. You’ll have fun trying to identify all of the sites. And you’ll be pleased to find salon-quality Apotheke toiletries in the shower.
Overall, the room is clean, and the bed is comfortable. But if you’re looking for something a little more plush, you may want to consider the Hyatt Centric next door.
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Dining and Entertainment
Caption by Hyatt doesn’t have an on-site restaurant, but the lobby bar/cafe is open daily from 6 a.m.-10 p.m. However, on the last night of my stay, I noticed that it had closed shortly after 9 p.m. I did not eat here, so I can’t attest to the quality of the food, and online reviews are iffy. But don’t worry. Caption’s Front Street location is within easy walking distance of restaurants, bars, and coffee shops. And for those who like to stock up on supplies, there’s even a convenience store a few blocks away on Main Street where you can purchase snacks, water, and soda.
For an elegant night out, try Amelia Gene’s, located on the corner next to Caption. This fine-dining spot offers chic cocktails and an internationally influenced menu of pastas, seafood, and steaks. For something more casual, head to local classic Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken, just two blocks away. GQ magazine calls this understated eatery one of the top 10 restaurants in the world worth flying to for a meal. And after devouring some tasty chicken, pop into Old Dominick’s Distillery for a shot or two of Tennessee whiskey.
Another must-try restaurant is Arcade, which is located about a half-mile south of the hotel. Opened in 1919, it is the city’s oldest restaurant. It also was a favorite of Elvis, who regularly ordered the fried peanut butter and banana sandwich. Start your day with your own PB&B treat — and pair it with some biscuits and chocolate gravy. And for a complete 180 at dinnertime, head to Chez Philippe at the famous Peabody Hotel where you can enjoy a sophisticated four- or seven-course tasting meal. And, of course, cap the night off at any of the many bars and honky-tonks along Beale Street.
Staying at Caption by Hyatt
Caption by Hyatt offers king bed and two double bed guest rooms. Many have unobstructed views of the Mississippi River. There’s also a river-view suite with a private balcony that faces the river. Rates start at about $120 per night. You can check Hotels.com or another booking site to compare rates. Valet parking is available for an additional $33/night. Pets also are welcome with an added fee.
For more places to stay in the Bluff City, check out our article on unique Memphis hotels.
Exterior photo of Caption by Hyatt courtesy of Hyatt Hotels. All interior images by Rebecca L. Rhoades. Beale Street photo from Dreamstime stock images.
